My sculptures start out as wood, paper mache, and clay forms.  As they are refined , sanded, and painted,  I begin working through possible adaptations using all the  bits and pieces of jewelry, utensils, hardware, and junk I have stored in my studio. I very rarely start out with a clear finished piece in my mind, rather, I begin with a concept or idea, and the process is much more intuitive, as I gauge how different elements fit my concept and how they will function in the piece.  Once I've selected the components, the challenge of assembling takes over, and  I will add and take away as the piece comes to life.  I enjoy using items that mimic human characteristics, both physical and emotional, making the piece more relatable to the viewer while satisfying my need to portray the inner idiosyncracies of the human condition.
 My stash:   I'm always on the lookout.  Friends and family are happy to give me old broken and unwanted items, plus I find many objects, like old nails, wire, and rusty metal on my daily walks.  I also make trips to the local antique shops,junk stores and salvage yards and buy all kinds of old, rusty tools, utensils, and junk.  For me, these expeditions are all part of the artistic process.

Laurie